If you notice an increase in heating and cooling costs, the quality of your residential garage door could be to blame. As attached garages are often uninsulated, the heavy panels may allow the heat transfer and air loss that causes HVAC equipment to work harder. To improve home efficiency, keep an eye out for the following features.

What Qualities Add to the Efficiency of Garage Doors?

High R-Value & Low U-Value

When searching for residential garage door replacements, look for products with high R-values. This means the panels will slow or resist conductive heat. Meanwhile, low U-value indicates little heat will pass through the fixtures. This will prevent the air conditioner from working overtime, and draining more energy, to cancel out stifling temperatures in the garage. 

Multiple Layers

Energy-efficient residential garage doors are comprised of multiple layers. Similar to windows, one layer of insulation separates the two outer panels. Adding an insulating material to a single panel will boost the overall efficiency of the installation. For example, a steel residential garage door has a low R-value on its own but can be retrofitted with a polyurethane layer to enhance its efficiency.

Smart Home Automation

Mornings are often hectic for many families. This means it’s easy to forget to close the garage door after heading out. During hot and frigid weather, outside air will quickly fill the garage and filter inside the house. Look for a model equipped with smart home technology. This way, you can control the garage door opener through your smartphone to close the panels after you leave the house.

If you are in the market for a new commercial or residential garage door, the professionals at Tracey Door Co. in Rochester, NY, are eager to introduce you to a world of options. As a member of the International Door Association and Rochester Home Builders’ Association with over 30 years of experience in garage door installation and repair, the team is qualified to address your needs and provide advice to make the investment more secure. To schedule a consultation in the Monroe County area, call (585) 426-6060. Visit the company online to see what brands they carry and become a Facebook follower to see photos of their work.